Quick answer: Use PNG for websites, slides and social media; SVG for websites and developers; EPS or PDF for printers and sign shops; and AI as your editable master file. JPG is fine for everyday sharing but has no transparent background.
Raster vs Vector in One Minute
Raster files (PNG, JPG) are made of pixels and have a fixed size. Vector files (AI, EPS, SVG, PDF) are made of paths and scale infinitely without losing quality. A complete logo package should include both.
Logo File Formats Compared
- AI — Adobe Illustrator master file. Fully editable vector. Keep it safe; designers need it for future changes.
- EPS — Universal vector format accepted by most sign shops, printers and promotional-product companies.
- SVG — Vector format for the web. Tiny file sizes, sharp on every screen, and used by cutting machines like Cricut.
- PDF — Can contain vector artwork; easy to open and preferred by many printers.
- PNG — Raster with transparent background. Best for websites, email signatures, presentations and social.
- JPG — Raster with a solid background. Good for quick sharing, not for placing over colors.
Which File to Send Where
- Business cards and brochures: vector PDF or EPS
- Signs, banners and vehicle wraps: EPS, AI or vector PDF
- T-shirt screen printing: vector (AI, EPS or PDF) with exact colors
- Embroidery: vector file for the digitizer, plus a simplified version
- Website: SVG, or PNG at 2× display size
- Social media profile: square PNG of your icon or compact logo
Color Versions You Should Have
Beyond formats, a professional package includes full color, one-color black, one-color white (reversed) and, ideally, horizontal, stacked and icon-only layouts. That way your logo works on dark backgrounds, stitched on hats and inside small circles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which logo file is best for printing?
A vector file — EPS, AI or vector PDF — is best for print because it stays sharp at any size.
Can I open an AI or EPS file without Illustrator?
You can often preview them in PDF readers or free tools like Inkscape, but editing works best in Illustrator. Printers can open them directly.
Why does my logo have a white box around it?
It is probably a JPG or a PNG saved without transparency. Use a transparent PNG or a vector file instead.
Need Help With Your Logo?
Only have a PNG or JPG of your logo? Get a full vector file package book a free consultation or call (720) 459-4131 — most clients get 4–5 original concepts the same day for a flat $125–$175.